ABB PFTL201C-10kN Pressductor Strip Force Transducer – Reliable, drift‑resistant tension measurement for rolling and processing lines

You entered “ABB PFCL201C-10KN.” You might notice that the correct ABB model designation for this family is typically written as PFTL201C-10kN. It’s part of ABB’s Pressductor (magnetoelastic) strip force series used for precise strip and web tension measurement in steel, aluminum, paper, and converting lines. From my experience, this 10 kN variant hits a sweet spot for medium-tension applications where repeatability and ruggedness matter more than lab-grade sensitivity.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• – Warranty period: 365 days

• – Delivery time: 1 week when in stock; no more than one month at the latest

• – Payment: 50% advance payment; full payment prior to delivery

– Express delivery: FedEx, UPS, DHL

Key Features

• Pressductor (magnetoelastic) technology – Unlike strain-gauge load cells, this sensor is inherently robust and maintains calibration well under shock loads and rolling mill vibration.
• Nominal force: 10 kN – Well-suited to strip and web lines where tension typically sits in the low-to-mid ton range.
• High overload tolerance – In many cases, operators report stable zero and low drift even after accidental overloads.
• Stable, repeatable signal – Pairs seamlessly with ABB PFEA 111/112/113 electronics for clean analog outputs (0–10 V or 4–20 mA).
• Rugged industrial housing – Designed for mill environments; handles vibration, humidity, and oil mist better than most conventional sensors.
• Easy retrofit and alignment – Typically installed as a pair at both bearing chocks or roll ends; straightforward bolted/flange mounting.
• Real-world feedback – A service team in a stainless line reported faster tension loop tuning after replacing mixed-brand cells with PFTL201C pairs, thanks to consistent zero and less drift.

Technical Specifications

Related or Supporting Products

• ABB PFEA 111 / PFEA 112 / PFEA 113 – Dedicated signal conditioning electronics for Pressductor transducers; provides stable excitation and analog outputs (0–10 V / 4–20 mA). You’ll typically choose based on channel count and output needs.
• ABB PFTL201C-2kN / -5kN / -20kN / -50kN – Same family, different nominal force ratings. If your line tension is lower or higher than planned, these variants make sizing straightforward.
• ABB PFTL101A/B – Alternative Pressductor models for different mechanical formats (often used where mounting geometry differs from the 201C style).

Installation & Maintenance

One thing I appreciate is how forgiving these are in real mill environments, but alignment still matters. Below are practical notes that typically avoid commissioning headaches.

• Mounting – Install as a pair on both roll ends or bearing chocks. Ensure flat, rigid mounting surfaces. Preload should follow ABB’s outlined torque values for the 10 kN unit.
• Cabinet & Wiring – Place PFEA electronics in a ventilated control cabinet (IEC/UL recognized) with proper grounding. Use shielded cable between sensor and PFEA; terminate shields at one end to minimize ground loops.
• EMC & Routing – Route sensor cables away from high-current motor cables. In many cases, adding ferrites near the cabinet entry reduces noise pickup.
• Safety – Lock out/tag out the line before mechanical work. Verify that roll and strip are safely supported, as the sensor sits in the load path.
• Startup & Calibration – Zero the system with no strip. Span is typically set via known tension or a calibrated reference on the PFEA module.
• Routine Care – Every 6–12 months, check mounting bolts, cable integrity, and zero drift. Clean off oil/scale; if the environment is harsh, consider protective covers. Firmware updates (when applicable) apply to the PFEA electronics.

Quality & Certifications

• Certifications – CE compliant; RoHS compliant. Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality systems.
• Warranty – 365 days coverage as stated above. ABB’s standard product quality and traceability apply.

If you’re sizing a system, share your expected tension range, roll geometry, and available cabinet voltage. We can match the correct PFEA module and cable lengths, and in many cases, suggest the most practical mounting kit so commissioning goes smoothly.